Across the globe, countless girls have grown up with Barbie dolls. Unlike traditional products such as Russian Matryoshka dolls, Japanese Kokeshi dolls, or Indian Hopi Kachina dolls, Barbie is the product of a toy company founded by Ruth Handler and her husband in 1945. Yet, from its initial launch at the American Toy Fair in New York City in 1959, Barbie immediately created a sensation in the toy industry in general and children's doll production in particular. In its first year alone, 351,000 Barbie dolls found their "friends."
The appeal of the Barbie brand remains remarkable, with over 1 billion dolls sold annually. Barbie fans are incredibly curious and eager to learn about the stories surrounding Barbie and her "creator." This is part of the reason why the book "The Story of Barbie and the Woman Who Created Her" was released. The book was created by author Cindy Eagan – a true Barbie fan and editor of young adult novels – and artist Amy June Bates.
"The Story of Barbie and the Woman Who Created Her" is a vibrant book that recounts the inspiration and purpose behind Ruth Handler's creation of Barbie, particularly her persistent pursuit of her dream to create a beautiful, fashionable doll that inspires countless young girls. Few know that Ruth Handler faced obstacles when she presented her idea for a doll that was considered too different and unrealistic – according to the all-male leadership of her company. And Ruth Handler proved them wrong by creating the most famous doll ever.
Ruth Handler not only "gave birth" to Barbie but also truly "nurtured" her into adulthood. She tirelessly strived to reinvent Barbie, keeping her "daughter" in line with the times. Barbie was transformed into a singer, a ballet dancer, a doctor... she even "found" a boyfriend doll for Barbie, Ken. This pair became world- famous doll duos.
Barbie is no longer just a simple doll; it opens up a colorful world of dreams and aspirations for young girls. Young readers, when viewing the illustrated book "The Story of Barbie and the Woman Who Created Her," can see the diverse range of professions Barbie has undertaken, fostering curiosity and exploration of future careers. Notably, Ruth has always ensured that Barbie dolls keep pace with the times, from her debut as an astronaut landing on the Moon in 1965 to her first appearance as a presidential candidate in 1992…
The authors of the book hope that "The Story of Barbie and the Woman Who Created Her" will bring readers, especially young girls, closer to Ruth Handler's vision of her "darling": "My whole philosophy about Barbie is that through this doll, girls can become whoever they want to be."
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